From the Editor: An Exciting Time For The Industry

By Cory Sekine-Pettite

If you’ve picked up this issue of Markee while attending the 2013 NAB Show (April 6-11, 2013), then allow me to welcome you to the show and to Las Vegas. This is an exciting time for the industry, and this show is the event of the year.

For the first time in three years, movie ticket sales increased in 2012. Additionally, movie studios saw record returns last year, collecting a total of $10.8 billion. And I cannot think of a better era for TV production and programming – from mega-hits such as Game of Thrones and The Walking Dead to mini-series such Downton Abbey and Sherlock. This speaks, I think, not only to the quality of the films and programs released, but also the technology and equipment used to make them – as is evidenced frequently in these pages.

Much of this equipment can be found on the NAB show floor, and some of it may even be demonstrated in the various educational sessions scheduled throughout the week. To help you get your bearings, turn to our NAB Preview (beginning on page 20) for an abridged look at some of the exhibitors and what they are showcasing.

Also in this issue – and on the cover – is our annual look at the latest VFX in spots (“Where Imagination Thrives,” page 8). Christine Bunish profiles four VFX companies about recent projects, including a Game of Thrones spot, and a promotional video for auto manufacturer Lincoln.

This issue also highlights several rental houses (beginning on page 34) whose owners tell us what’s hot, what’s next, and their best-kept equipment secrets. This article is not to be missed.

In closing, if you’re attending NAB, enjoy yourself, but pace yourself. And if you want to say hello, I’ll be at the show the entire week. Send me an email (cory@lionhrtpub.com) or find me on Twitter (@MarkeeMag). I’d love to meet you.